Art imitates life in the case of movies filmed in Mykonos
A dapper, suave gentleman is wooing a beautiful, classy lady against the charming backdrop of Little Venice. It might as well have been happening in real life; but this scene actually comes from the cinema: The Greek Tycoon, with Antony Quinn and Jaqueline Bisset on the leading roles, that is in fact but one of the many movies filmed in Mykonos.
With its archetypal Cycladic architecture, gorgeous beaches and idyllic sunsets, the island of the winds oozes inspiration from its each and every pristine nook and cranny. It is no wonder then, that its characteristically scenic backdrop is starring in a number of international films. Many of which received dithyrambic reviews, not least thanks to their location and mise-en-scène.
If November’s rainy weather is getting you down, let cinema fuel your wanderlust. Here are our handpicked suggestions of the top 5 movies filmed in Mykonos. Just sit back, relax and enjoy. It is all the inspiration you need to start planning for your next trip to our whitewashed island and the Semeli best 5-star luxury hotel in Mykonos Town.
Top 5 movies filmed in Mykonos
The Greek Tycoon (1978)
An American drama that centres on Aristotle Onassis’ relationship with President Kennedy’s widow, Jacqueline. A scandalous, much-publicized story back then, no wonder the Greek shipping tycoon’s courtship with the former first lady, was turned into a movie. Expect glamour, excess and heart-stopping island scenery. The kind that turned the real Jackie ‘O into Mykonos’ most ardent ambassador.
Shirley Valentine (1989)
A British romantic/comedy/drama film that won over the public and the critics’ acclaim, alike. Played by award-winning actress Pauline Collins, Shirley Valentine is a middle-aged Liverpudlian on a journey of self-discovery after her best mate invites her on a trip to Mykonos. Arguably one of the best and most famous movies filmed in Mykonos, it is primarily staged on the quaint Agios Ioannis beach.
Kamaki (2007)
Kamaki literally translates to harpoon in Greek, but it figuratively (and most oftenly) means flirting -in this rather pushily manner that was once the locals’ trademark. An independent feature comedy film written and directed by the O’Connor brothers, Kamaki, narrates the story of a young Englishman who comes to Mykonos for work but very soon gets mixed up in troubles.
The Bourne Identity (2002)
The Bourne Identity is an American-German action-thriller blockbuster. Starring Matt Damon, Franka Potente and Clive Owen, this spy film- the first of a trilogy- takes place in various locations including France, Italy and the Czech Republic. It’s final scene however unfolds in Little Venice, where the protagonist who suffers from severe memory loss, tracks down his accomplice.
The Kings Of Mykonos (2010)
This is an Australian comedy packed with Greek dance performances and Mykonos island scenes. The story is about a man who inherits a beach in Mykonos and becomes rich overnight. Then a series of hilariously dramatic incidents unfold.
The jet setters’ paradisiacal playground in the heart of the Aegean has captured the imagination of numerous film directors around the world with good reason. And their choice of location has been proven right, as many of these films were met with considerable success. But while movies filmed in Mykonos are just perfect for feel-good escapism, experiencing the real deal is another thing altogether. Dare to delve deep into the lifestyle of the globe’s beautiful people by organizing your next holiday in Mykonos.
The iconic white-washed Chora with its sugar-cube houses, striking windmills and seafront, colourful Little Venice is where all action peaks. Get lost in the labyrinth alleys, shop till you drop at uber premium, designer boutiques and luxury stores, explore some fascinating museums and sights, dance your worries away at the top Mykonos bars and clubs. Yet with loud music blasting almost from every corner, your best option is to base yourself somewhere central but serene. Perched on a slight slope at the edge of town, the Semeli Mykonos luxury boutique hotel is ideally situated close to what’s hip and happening, yet safely removed from the hubbub. After all, you’ll be wanting your good night’s rest, to keep up with the frenzied Mykonian rhythms!
Affording panoramic vistas over the emblematic Chora; whilst sporting state of the art facilities like the rejuvenating Aegeo Spa, luxurious rooms and suites, and two exceptional restaurants, Thioni and Krama, the Semeli is a VIP hangout, whose star-studded pool and luscious gardens have time and again welcomed celebrities, stars and A-listers. How about living your kind of dream movie in Mykonos, too?
